On July 3, 1868, Washakie signed the Fort Bridger Treaty that established a three million acre reservation in Wyoming's stunningly beautiful Wind River country. Thanks to his foresight and leadership, this Warm Valley remains the home of the Shoshone today.

The Fort Bridger treaty included pledges for building schools; Washakie was as committed to his people's education as he was to protecting their lands. To this end, he and his good friend the Welsh clergyman John Roberts established a boarding school for Shoshone girls. Built on sacred ceremonial grounds along the banks of Trout Creek, the school encouraged tradition and native speech.

Washakie remained an active and respected leader until his death at 102. His wisdom, gained from a centruy of experience and leadership, was sought by non-Native Americans as well as his own people.